Artwork Description

Title: Smell the Fragrance · Fish Thirteen
Artist: Yongjun Zhang
Date: Undated
Medium: Watercolor on paper
Dimensions: 35 × 35 cm (13.8 × 13.8 in)

1. Artwork Identification
Smell the Fragrance · Fish Thirteen is a delicate watercolor painting by Yongjun Zhang. Measuring 35 × 35 cm, the composition centers on a white goldfish gently swimming in a pale blue expanse. The surrounding water is rendered with soft, cloud-like textures, evoking both tranquility and a dreamlike quality. Subtle hints of yellow near the gills and pink or red on the fins accentuate the fish’s graceful form.

2. Artistic Style and Influences
This piece reflects minimalist aesthetics inspired by traditional Chinese ink wash painting, where simplicity and negative space play a central role. The artist adopts a modern watercolor approach, blending soft gradients and delicate hues to achieve a serene, meditative mood. The stylized depiction of the fish and water suggests an appreciation for natural beauty and symbolic themes, common in East Asian art traditions.

3. Historical Context
Goldfish have held symbolic significance in Chinese culture for centuries, often representing prosperity, harmony, and abundance. By placing the fish within a minimalist, ethereal setting, Yongjun Zhang bridges classical symbolism with contemporary interpretation, emphasizing purity and calmness—a hallmark of literati ideals in Chinese painting history.

4. Provenance and Authenticity
For provenance details and authentication, please refer to the gallery’s official documentation.

5. Condition and Conservation
The work appears in excellent condition, with no visible signs of deterioration. Watercolor paintings on paper require careful environmental control to prevent fading or warping; proper framing with UV-protective glass is recommended.

6. Artistic Significance
The artwork stands out for its harmonious balance between traditional Chinese symbolism and modern minimalism, offering both aesthetic beauty and cultural depth. The restrained palette and fluid brushwork invite contemplation, making it suitable for collectors who value elegance and tranquility in contemporary Chinese art.